Burundi is determined to turn the tide in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations 2026 qualifiers as they prepare to face Burkina Faso in the return leg on February 26 in Bamako.
Despite a first-leg defeat, head coach Alain Olivier Niyungeko remains confident his team can overturn the result and secure a spot in the next round.
“We have, of course, lost this match but we will win the return match,” Niyungeko asserted after the initial setback.
“It is true that Burkina has a very good team, but we will prepare to beat them in the return match.
You know? It is just a half that we have just finished. We will come back for the second part and you will see that it will be another match.”
The Burundian squad is now focused on correcting their earlier mistakes and capitalizing on their second chance.
Niyungeko’s optimism is rooted in his team’s resilience and belief that they can rise to the occasion, despite the challenges posed by a strong Burkinabe side.
In the first leg, Burkina Faso showcased their tactical discipline and offensive strength, which ultimately secured them the upper hand.
However, Burundi displayed flashes of brilliance, giving them hope that a comeback is within reach if they fine-tune their approach.
Niyungeko emphasized the importance of mental fortitude and strategic planning ahead of the decisive clash.
“We’ve identified the gaps from the first match and are working hard to close them. Our players are motivated and know what’s at stake. We will fight until the last minute,” he added.
The upcoming match not only holds significance for Burundi’s AFCON ambitions but also serves as a defining moment for the team’s growth and unity.
A win would propel them into the next qualification round, where they would face the victor between Togo and Djibouti.
Meanwhile, Burkina Faso enters the return leg with a slight advantage but remains cautious of Burundi’s determination. Their coach has urged the team to maintain focus and avoid complacency, knowing that the qualifiers can still swing in either direction.
As the countdown to the match begins, both teams are sharpening their tactics, with Burundi banking on an aggressive but calculated approach to upset their opponents.
Fans are set for an intense showdown as Burundi strives to rewrite their narrative and keep their Women’s AFCON 2026 dreams alive.
